The Tesla Model Y Performance stands as the most powerful trim within the Model Y line-up, offering significantly enhanced acceleration, improved dynamics, and a more assertive visual identity compared to the standard models. For UK buyers, it combines high performance with the practicality and efficiency expected of a modern electric SUV, while also presenting extremely favourable tax implications for company-car users.
Performance, Power and Driving Character
Equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain producing approximately 460 bhp, the Model Y Performance accelerates from 0–60 mph in around 3.3 seconds. Power delivery is instantaneous – typical of EVs – and provides effortless overtaking, rapid motorway acceleration, and a notably athletic feel for a vehicle of this size.
Despite its SUV form, handling remains composed, benefitting from the low centre of gravity created by the battery placement. The car feels planted and stable at speed, and although not as communicative as traditional enthusiast-focused performance cars, it delivers confidence-inspiring control under most conditions.
Range, Charging and Real-World Usability
With an estimated WLTP range of approximately 360 miles, the Model Y Performance offers versatile long-distance capability. Access to the Tesla Supercharger network continues to be a major advantage, reducing charging downtime and making long trips far more seamless than with many competitor EVs.
Charging route-planning is integrated into the onboard navigation system, intelligently selecting stops based on state of charge, destination and route topography. For drivers who regularly travel long stretches of UK motorway or rely on public charging networks, this remains one of the most convenient overall charging ecosystems available.
Interior, Space and Practicality
The cabin design prioritises modern minimalism and space efficiency. The interior accommodates five adults comfortably, aided by the flat rear floor and spacious seating layout. Luggage capacity is generous, supported by under-floor storage and a front boot that increases overall cargo versatility beyond that of many comparable SUVs.
Interior quality has steadily improved with recent updates, delivering a cleaner, more refined feel, complemented by supportive seats that offer good long-distance comfort. Technology integration remains central to the experience, with most functions controlled through a single touchscreen interface. This simplifies the cabin visually but may require adjustment for drivers accustomed to physical buttons.
Ride, Comfort and On-Road Behaviour
The Performance model rides on 21-inch wheels with a firmer suspension tune, improving responsiveness and cornering stability but resulting in a slightly less forgiving ride on rough or broken road surfaces. On well-maintained tarmac it feels composed, but road imperfections are more noticeable than in softer-suspended EVs.
Steering is accurate but not especially communicative, and drivers seeking emotional involvement may find the experience more digital than mechanical. Nonetheless, for most motorists, the combination of comfort, pace and stability will prove more than sufficient — particularly on motorways where the vehicle excels as a refined long-range cruiser.
BIK & Company-Car Tax Advantage
For business and fleet users, the Model Y Performance is especially compelling. Being a zero-emission vehicle, it currently qualifies for a 3% Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) rate, giving it a notable cost advantage over petrol and diesel equivalents which typically carry far higher rates.
Based on an example P11D value of around £60,000, the taxable benefit equates to approximately £1,800 per year. A standard-rate taxpayer would therefore pay roughly £30 per month in company-car tax, while a higher-rate taxpayer would pay around £60 per month. Even with planned incremental increases to BIK for EVs in the coming years, the Model Y remains one of the most tax-efficient performance SUVs available for UK businesses.
This financial efficiency, combined with strong range and charging convenience, makes the Model Y Performance particularly well suited to business drivers, salary-sacrifice schemes and fleet integration.
Verdict
The Tesla Model Y Performance delivers an accomplished blend of pace, stability and everyday practicality. It offers supercar-rivaling acceleration, usable long-distance range, a spacious and refined interior, and access to a highly developed charging network — all while remaining cost-effective from a company-car perspective.
Its firm ride, reliance on touchscreen controls, and wide footprint may deter those seeking a more traditional or tactile driving character, particularly on narrow UK roads. However, for drivers prioritising efficiency, performance and modern EV usability, the Model Y Performance stands out as one of the most well-rounded electric SUVs currently on sale.
Balanced, powerful and impressively economical to run, it represents one of the strongest propositions in the UK EV performance market today.